Dan Hardy says fighting future is up to the UFC

A few weeks ago, UFC welterweight Dan Hardy was lined up to meet Matt Brown and felt in tiptop shape when he went in for a regular round of pre-fight medical testing. Unfortunately, the results of his screening revealed he suffers from a previously undiagnosed heart condition making him a moderate risk in the ring based on the stress of competition, and Hardy was replaced in the rumble by Jordan Mein.

“The Outlaw” has since taken some time to think about his next move and, as he told MMAJunkie, he already has a few certainties in mind.

“I know I’m approaching the end of my career. I’ve got to weigh whether it’s worth me taking the risk and getting the surgery to have a couple more fights I might not enjoy being a part of anyway,” explained Hardy, saying he didn’t want to go under the knife to correct his condition.

Though Hardy wants to continue his career in the Octagon, he’s also aware of the likelihood the UFC may not want to jeopardize the company’s standing by putting a pugilist in the cage that won’t be medically cleared by certain athletic commissions.

“Everyone’s seen my fights. I never make an easy night of it. It’s always a scrap. I’ve been in the trenches, and I’ve never had any problems,” said Hardy. “I don’t see any reason why they wouldn’t use me, but, obviously, the decision is out of my hands.”

Hardy has pointed to the possibility of coaching others and going back to school to get a degree in philosophy as options he’s considering if his run in the ring is officially over for health-related reasons. If the 30-year old is indeed done with MMA, he will exit the sport with a record of 25-10 including sixteen stoppages.